Wildfire still raging northwest of Calgary, evacuation alert in effect

UPDATE: The reception centre closed at 4 p.m. on Friday, July 26. Officials said it would be reactivated if necessary.

An out-of-control wildfire in the Water Valley area, approximately 80 kilometres northwest of Calgary, is now 110 hectares in size.

The Municipal District of Bighorn, Alta., which declared a state of emergency on Wednesday, has requested residents in the area stay on high alert and be prepared to evacuate on one hour's notice, according to a civic alert.

"There is a wildfire, currently classed as out of control, approximately 25 kilometres west of Water Valley," reads the alert. "The fire has not significantly grown since last evening. Alberta Wildfire is actively engaged in fire suppression activity."

The evacuation alert remains in effect for residents in the following areas:

• M.D. of Bighorn west of Water Valley (Doc Mills Road (RR62A).
• Whispering Pines Road (TWP 294A).
• Burnt Timber Road.

While the fire has not grown to a significant level since Wednesday, people have been advised to regularly monitor the Alberta Wildfire Dashboard and the M.D. of Bighorn's website for updates.

An area closure is already in effect in the locations close to the fire.

Road closures are also in effect in the following areas:

• Highway 579 (Harold Creek Road).
• Highway 40.
• Burnt Timber Road.
• Stud Creek Road.

According to the alert, while no residents need to evacuate as of now. A reception centre has been set up at the Water Valley Community Hall for anyone requiring information or support.

It will stay open until 8 p.m. Thursday.

"Any persons self-evacuating are asked to inform the reception centre as they leave. Those who are re-entering the area should check in and check out at the reception centre," the alert reads.

Those who need information on livestock are asked to call 403-493-4821 for assistance, while others who need general information or additional support are asked to phone the M.D.of Bighorn administration offices at 403-673-3611.